Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in Seattle, WA

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy used to treat a variety of mental illnesses. CBT helps patients look more closely at the relationship between their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. CBT is believed to help adults and children find ways to challenge negative or destructive thoughts that fuel their mental illness and help them overcome negative behaviors.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, studies show that cognitive behavioral therapy actually changes brain activity, leading researchers to believe that CBT improves brain function. It has shown as much benefit as antidepressant drugs for some patients who battle that specific mental illness.

How is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Different?

CBT is an interactive form of psychotherapy that allows the therapist and patient to work together. Therapists who work in this type of therapy focus on the patient's problems and set very specific goals for treatment.

Patients are given tools to change negative thoughts or behaviors and must complete “homework” or assignments outside of therapy sessions to help them progress.

Patients may be taught to write down negative thoughts, schedule positive activities into their day, develop more realistic responses to fear, and challenge irrational thoughts overall.

What Should I Expect During Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

On your first visit, your therapist or other mental health provider will take some time to better understand your mental health. He or she will help you decide what tasks to work on. Gathering all of this information can take one or several sessions.

This is also a good time for you to get to know your therapist or CBT provider. It is very important that you feel comfortable with your provider. Not everyone's personality will work out well, though. If you feel your therapist isn't a good fit for you, try someone else. Make sure to ask him or her about his or her treatment approach, how many sessions you may need, and how long each session will last.

Remember that getting used to CBT will take some time. You may feel uncomfortable talking about your feelings at first. That's OK; above all, try to be honest with your therapist and let him or her know your reservations. He or she will be able to help you find ways to open up and feel more comfortable.

Request More Information

Cognitive behavioral therapy has a well-documented history of effectiveness for a variety of patients. By focusing on the thoughts and beliefs of the patient, professionals from many areas of health care are using this approach. To learn more, call (206) 402-3375 or contact Dr. Jesse McClelland online.